The US State Department warned American tourists not to travel to Haiti because of the increase in criminal violence, robberies and kidnappings.
The alert level, which increased to four “no trips,” indicates that in Haiti armed robberies, vehicle thefts, and kidnappers “could use sophisticated plans or take advantage of unplanned opportunities,” of which American tourists have been victims.
“Demonstrations, burning tires and roadblocks are frequent, unpredictable and can become violent. Local police may lack the resources to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. The emergency response, including ambulance service, is limited or non-existent, ”said the State Department statement.
It also has among its warnings that travelers are sometimes followed and violently attacked and robbed shortly after leaving the international airport of Port-au-Prince.
“The United States Embassy requires that its staff use official transportation to and from the airport. Thieves and car thieves have attacked private vehicles caught in traffic congestion and often attack lonely drivers, particularly women who drive alone, ”he says.
He warns that the United States government has a limited capacity to provide emergency services to US citizens in some areas of Haiti.
He also advises that US government personnel. UU do not walk in most neighborhoods.
United States government personnel in Haiti are prohibited: visiting night establishments without security; use public transport or taxis; visit banks and use ATMs; drive out of Port au Prince at night; travel anywhere between 1:00 and 5:00 in the morning and visit some parts of the city without prior authorization or security measures.
In the event that a tourist decides to travel to Haiti, the US Department of States indicates the following recommendations: avoid demonstrations and crowds, do not try to drive through obstacles; organize airport and hotel transfers in advance, or have your host meet you upon arrival and do not provide personal information to unauthorized persons (i.e., people without uniforms or official credentials) located in immigration areas, customs or other areas inside or near any airport.
In case you feel that you are being followed when you leave the airport, drive to the nearest police station; travel by vehicle to minimize walking in public; transport in groups or at least with two people; Always keep vehicle doors and windows closed when driving and stay alert, especially when driving near markets or in areas with vehicular congestion.
Also do not physically resist any theft and buy travel insurance and medical evacuation insurance in advance.
They also recommended to follow the social networks and alerts of the US Department of State to find out about any news about this type of security measures.
– .
